“Better Man” by Tom Tikka & The Missing Hubcaps

With Better Man, Tom Tikka isn’t just chasing nostalgia, he’s shaping it into something new. A seasoned songwriter with accolades under his belt and a clear vision for storytelling, Tikka delivers an album that captures the essence of classic singer-songwriter records from the ’60s and ’70s think Elton John meets Paul Simon but with a crisp, modern edge.

Released via Minds Behind the Music and distributed by Sony Orchard, the album is polished yet emotional, with each track blending heartfelt lyrics, radio-ready melodies, and genre-hopping arrangements. It’s a rich palette folk-rock guitars, soaring harmonies, even a touch of funk and pop that feels both familiar and fresh.

The standout single “By 2022” (already an iTunes Canada Top 20 hit and award-nominated) showcases Tikka’s ability to blend commentary with hooks, while deeper cuts like “Venetian Rubber Boots” and “Forgive Me” reflect his lyrical depth and emotional weight. There’s an honesty running through Better Man, a kind of lived-in wisdom that makes it more than just a collection of tunes.

Tikka’s experience as a hitmaker shows, but so does his hunger to evolve. He’s not afraid to be tender, gritty, or even a little experimental. That makes Better Man more than a throwback. It’s a statement of growth and gratitude from an artist determined to leave a mark.